What is African Black Soap?
African Black Soap is a plant based, hand-made cleanser, which contains all-natural ingredients and originates from west Africa. Nigerians & Ghanaians have used black soap for many years and continue to do so. This soap is revered not just for its deep cleansing properties but for its nourishing benefits due to its abundance of antioxidants. As awareness of black soap grows, it sells in different parts of the world for the very fact that it contains natural ingredients.
Amongst other ingredients, Nakisa African Black Soap contains Shea Butter (which is moisturizing), Cocoa Pod Husk Ash (which is exfoliating) and Coconut Oil.
Despite its name, authentic African black soap is not black, it is actually different shades of brown and has an uneven shape. In its original state, it is free of fragrances, sulfates and parabens which are known to cause reactions and sensitivity to the skin.
This soap is really a one-size fits all skincare product and is suitable for all skin types. It is known for benefits like sebum reduction, fading of scars, reduction of breakouts and our favorite, reducing hyperpigmentation and our favorite, which is brightening of the skin. It is packed with essential nutrients designed to enhance the skin’s natural complexion hence the brightening effect.
What’s more is that the production of black soap benefits the communities in which the ingredients are sourced.
Benefits of using African Black Soap
It is known to reduce hyperpigmentation & brighten skin – Black soap is known to shed pigmented skin cells caused by sun damage, pregnancy, acne scarring and pimples. It reduces hyperpigmentation, blemishes and dark spots and, in some cases, clears pigment issues completely. As the hyperpigmentation reduces, the skin then brightens.
It moisturizes – Shea butter is one of the main ingredients in black soap, it contains vitamin A & E. The many benefits of Shea Butter include soothing dry skin, treats acne and blemishes, restores elasticity of the skin, is an anti-aging agent amongst many other benefits. This in turn aids moisturization in black soap users.
It reduces acne and other skin problems – Black soap is also known to help fight acne, reduce eczema, psoriasis and soothe irritation, this is due to its antimicrobial properties. It also makes it an excellent alternative to chemical laden acne cleansers.
It’s suitable for all skin types – If your skin is dry or sensitive, you most likely experience a reaction from scented soaps and lotions. African black soap is naturally fragrance-free, however because it is an exfoliating soap, you must moisturize very well after washing (you can pair Nakisa African Black Soap with Nakisa Rosehip Seed Oil which is very moisturizing). If your skin is combination or oily, Black soap helps balance your skin’s natural oil production without stripping necessary oils or adding excess oil to your skin. Despite its strength, African black soap is gentle enough to use frequently.
It helps reduce fine lines – Coconut oil and Shea butter and are known to reduce collagen loss and encourage new development. This in turn can help with plumping up the skin and reducing wrinkles and fine lines. However, the sooner you start on a great skincare routine the longer you can wad off premature aging. Prevention is definitely better than cure.
Alleviates and prevents razor bumps – The moisture in African black soap will soften facial hair and make shaving manageable. Furthermore, the exfoliation properties of the soap help smoothen the skin and prevent clogging of pores after shaving.
How to use African Black Soap
To avoid irritation or a reaction we advise that you ease into using black soap. Start by doing a patch test on the inside of your arm best before full use. If you do not experience a reaction then you can use it two to three times a week and use a gentle cleanser on alternate days. If you prefer a liquid cleanser, you can dissolve a piece of soap in water and use the liquid instead.
Whichever method you choose, rinse soap off thoroughly with lukewarm water. Ensure your skin is adequately moisturized after cleansing and pay attention to how your skin responds.
Due to the popularity of African black soap, there are a number of black soaps on the market that are not made of natural ingredients and contain fragrances, essential oils as well as lightening ingredients. These may cause a reaction and may even be harmful thereby painting all black soap badly. Choose black soap with, full ingredient list so that you are fully aware of what you are putting on your skin.
Potential side effects of African Black Soap
African black soap can work well for all skin types; however, it can cause irritation, dry skin and stinging. It is formulated with plant-based ingredients and there is also the possibility of an allergic reaction. Therefore, using it correctly is key to preventing unnecessary side effects. If you experience an unusual reaction, discontinue use immediately.
African black soap is packed with essential nutrients designed to enhance your natural complexion and help you glow from the inside out. Try Nakisa African Black Soap on www.nakisaskincare.com, for more great skin tips follow us on Instagram @Nakisa.Skincare
